Monday, February 15, 2010

Assignment Four

In the two readings, 2D and 3D Animation and Video and The World Wide Web, there is a discussion taking place pertaining to the progression of computers and art. With the unlimited methods to create animation, the first reading points out the main elements used in many animation software programs today. Along with this animation technology, the readings illustrate how the introduction of the World Wide Web has further added to the exposure of computer arts to the global public.

In the discussion of animation, several new elements were introduced such as inbetweening, key frames, linear interpolation, easing, and motion blur. Key frames are used to “describe the extremes of an object’s motion. Inbetweening is then used to fill in the gaps between these key frames, while linear interpolation is the path taken during inbetweening. The path can be linear and non-linear. In a situation where a non-linear path is taken, in which an object either accelerates or decelerates, it is referred to as easing. To further illustrate that an object is moving, a motion blur is often added.

The techniques mentioned above apply to an object that appear to be moving, however it should be mentioned that in addition to having the objects appear to move, the view can also move in an animation. In an art form known as Filmography, there is a still 3D image taken in which the view is animated and travels through the scene on a motion path. This can be especially beneficial in interior design and architecture. Although elements in a space may not necessarily be moving the designer can simulate the path traveled through a building or room.

It should be noted that although my experience with Adobe Flash has been very introductory, I have been exposed to such terms as morphing and tracks. Also with previous experience with programs such as PowerPoint, I am familiar with the concept of animation transitions, which are often more distracting then beneficial to a presentation.

In discussing animation’s place in interior architecture, it is important to mention the idea that “motion implies space.” As interior designers, we are designing spaces for human movement. It is important for designers to illustrate a space to a client in 3D. Animation is a valuable tool and can give a broader picture of a space. Understanding how animations are constructed can only benefit the designer’s use of time and the quality of the animation.

As mentioned in previous readings in regards to computer renderings, creating a system of hierarchy is extremely important. The control of the animation and ease of movement rest on the successful organization of the objects included.

In the reading on the World Wide Web, many basic concepts are mentioned. Most of the terminology is second nature with having used the internet for well over a decade. The importance of how the web has offered a platform for artistic sharing ties in with a much earlier reading titled The Pioneers of Digital Art. When comparing these two readings we see an overlap in the popularity of the web being used as a catalyst to publically display and sell art to a greater audience. One practice highlighted in the recent reading revolves around a sharing of artistic experience. The internet in this situation provide the user with the ability to communicate and work together with global artists to be involved in the process of creating a piece of art. A starter image is presented and then the image is worked on my numerous artists in a digital environment.

This communication provided by the World Wide Web is a benefit to all professions. In interior design and architecture the internet provides for immediate communication and immediate transfer to digital work. This digital work can include anything from client information and existing photographs to finished renderings and construction documents. This ability to instantly communicate work and ideas has changed the way practices and educational programs function in the 21st century.